1997 HSV Manta VSII Wagon – Today’s Tempter

Holden’s VS Commodore represented the fourth iteration of the second generation, of one of Australia’s most beloved and historic nameplates.

Launched in April of 1995, the VS superseded the outgoing VR and remained in production until August 1997 (the ute was produced through to 2000).

Apart from the cosmetic facelift, the big mechanical changes saw the arrival of an updated version of the Buick-sourced ECOTEC V6.

The 3.8lt ECOTEC V6 occupied two of the three engine choices; naturally aspirated and supercharged, and bolstered by the Aussie 5.0lt V8.

Gearbox options were either a five-speed manual or four-speed auto; with body options including a two-door ute, four-door sedan and five-door wagon.

HSV produced a number of performance edition based on the VS, including: the Clubsport, Manta, GTS, GTS-R, Maloo and Senator.

This particular car is a 1997 HSV Manta, specified as a wagon with the 5.0lt V8 and four-speed auto.

It’s reportedly been the same family since new, and presents as factory with the only departure being an aftermarket head unit.

The seller describes the car as ‘well-loved’ and in great running condition. It was reportedly highly-specified from factory with optional Devonish leather seats, and has recently been reated to a bonnet and front bumper respray.

The car has travelled 200,500kms in its 23 years of life, and is based in Queensland.

Listed for $18,000; it looks like a great ready-to-run modern HSV collectible.